I’ve looked at them on and off lots of times. I bought plans for the Tane, a 27’ classic design secondhand, years ago. But after thought about the fact that I mostly sail by myself, I downscaled to the 21’ Hinemoa. The Hinemoa is probably the cat in the range of designs that most resembles James Wharram’s first home built cat’ that he sailed with two young German women, Ruth and Jutta.
Years ago, while I was lugging around in a shiny plastic monohull on my local lake, a modest little Hinemoa could often be seen far from the shore cruising off by itself. That rakish cat' was running it’s own race!
Even though I had my hands full fitting out, sailing, living aboard and later singlehanded cruising my mono, I’d often go to check out the Hinemoa at her mooring. Those sweet lines held me captive. Even on paper, Wharram designs would send me into dream world. Hopelesssly dumbfounded just like Toad siting on the road, “poop poop”.
So here we be, some 34 years down the river of life and my Wharram love has shown itself not to be a fleeting interest. It has outlived many other boats and even a long loveless marriage, until now.
Five years ago I ogled over a Tiki 21 that has been listed for sale. I could not afford it, but still I drove over to check her out. I’d imagine myself sailing off the wind, s itting in the little cabin, sipping coffee, watching the world go by. Joining the ranks of Wharram sailors worldwide: sailing their own course, lounging on the decks, chatting among the crew or listening to soft music or the splatter of the bow wave. At the end of the day I'd go find a remote anchorage, isolated and away from marinas, yacht clubs and jet skis.
Fast forward to today and that same Tiki has come up for sale again. This time cheaper, I could afford it. Now I am more confident with my own needs and interests. I might just make that purchase, this time.
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